Content
The course addresses key aspects of working life in Finland from the perspective of employment. It provides essential knowledge about the Finnish labour market and the prerequisites for employment, with a particular focus on the needs of international students. The aim of the course is to support international students' integration into Finnish society and their transition into working life. Themes explored in the course include:
• The distinctive features of Finnish working culture and adaptation to local workplace values and expectations.
• The structure of the Finnish job market, key industries, employment trends, and the use of digital job search tools.
• The significance of the hidden job market and professional networking in Finland.
• The role of language skills (Finnish and English) in employability and integration into Finnish working life.
• Employee rights, working conditions, and the support systems available in Finnish working life.
Learning objectives
On completion of the course, the student can:
• Describe the key features of Finnish working culture and compare them to their own cultural background using relevant frameworks.
• Identify major industries and job market trends in Finland and use appropriate digital tools to find relevant job opportunities.
• Explain the concept of hidden job markets and apply effective networking strategies in the Finnish context.
• Evaluate the role of Finnish language skills in employment and assess the relevance of language learning for personal career development.
• Recognize employee rights and employment conditions in Finland and identify where to seek support when needed.
Prerequisites
None
Teaching methods
Each module includes relevant readings and practical examples focused on the Finnish job market. All materials are available online, and you can revisit them whenever needed. Be sure to make use of the resources provided, such as external links for further reading. Each module consists of the following activities:
Reflective questions and case study examples help you compare your own experiences with everyday practical situations and Finnish work culture. The case study examples do not include written assignments.
Short writing assignments or scenario-based exercises that enable you to apply the concepts in practical situations.
Quizzes that test your understanding of the key concepts.
Learning material and recommended literature
Metropolia’s Varias Varibles Blog 2024 by Riia Hoppania Understanding Finnish Work Culture – Insights for International Jobseekers - Various Variables
Hofsteds
Language user profiles, 2023, by Johanna Komppa, Eveliina Korpela, Lari Kotilainen, Salla Kurhila and Inkeri Lehtimaja. Language user profiles | Kielibuusti
Evaluation criteria
By submitting written assignments, passing sectional exams, and providing course feedback.
Opettaja/Yhteyshenkilö
Enni Leskinen
Ville Paananen